Columbia and Snake Rivers Cruise

Embrace your inner pioneer as you travel along the epic route forged by Lewis and Clark more than 200 years ago. View the lush landscapes of the Columbia River Gorge and be awed by the magnificent Multnomah Falls. Visit Mount St. Helens with our local expert and learn how the eruption has affected the landscape and surrounding communities. Enjoy a trip to wine country and stop at a local winery for a tasting of the area's finest varietals. Along the way, be entertained by onboard musicians performing maritime songs, sea shanties, and selections from “The Great American Songbook.”

Ask about our Current Savings and our Complimentary Pre-cruise Packages which include a premium hotel stay and transportation to the ship. Click the Schedules & Rates tab for details.

Columbia and Snake Rivers Cruise

From the deepest canyon in America to the awesome sight of Multnomah Falls, each stop along your journey on the route of Lewis and Clark has its own story, embodied in the history and culture of the region.

Ports of Call

Portland, OR

Portland, OR

Astoria, OR

Mount St. Helens, WA

The Dalles, OR

Pendleton, OR / Richland, WA

Clarkston, WA

Clarkston, WA

Day by Day

Pre-CruisePortland, OR

Each Columbia and Snake Rivers itinerary comes complete with a Complimentary Pre-Cruise Package, providing you with a seamless way to board the ship and explore the local area. Arrive the day before your scheduled cruise date and American Cruise Lines will handle the rest. The package includes a premium hotel stay, where you can enjoy the city at your leisure. On the morning of the cruise, meet in the hotel lobby after breakfast and we will transport you to the ship to begin your cruise. All luggage will be brought directly from the hotel and placed in your stateroom aboard the ship.

*Pre-Cruise Package is not available for reservations made within 30 days of cruise date.

Day
1Portland, OR

Situated between the waters of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, Portland's history is forever entwined with the fortunes of the great rivers. In the golden age of riverboats, sternwheelers crossed Portland’s waterfront while steam whistles and calliopes rang out across the water. Today, highlights include the Portland Art Museum, the International Rose Test Garden, and the famous Powell’s Bookstore, filling an entire city block.

City of Roses Tour - Complimentary Excursion

Roses will adorn the ship as we arrive in Portland, also known as the “City of Roses.” In the morning, our guide will meet us at the ship for a fun-filled, narrated tour of the city. Explore the popular downtown area, considered to be one of the “top 10” most livable cities in the world. We will cross many of the notable scenic Portland bridges including Hawthorne Bridge (1910) and Broadway Bridge (1913) as we make our way to the Rose Garden State Park. Our final stop will be to the popular International Test Garden, which features over 6,800 rose bushes representing 557 varieties. Here, you can stroll the lush grounds or visit the Rose Garden Store, offering hundreds of rose-themed items.

*Tour only offered on cruises ending in Portland, OR.

Day
2Astoria, OR

A nationally significant historic region at the western end of the Lewis & Clark Trail, Astoria is the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies. In the winter of 1805-06, the Lewis & Clark Corps of Discovery Expedition was headquartered at Fort Clatsop. In 1955, a replica of the fort was built near the original site and was eventually named a National Monument. With its steep hills and beautiful Victorian homes, Astoria has been called the "Little San Francisco of the Pacific Northwest" and has a revitalized downtown ideal for shopping and dining.

Columbia River Maritime Museum - Complimentary Excursion

In the morning, you can take a trolley or a leisurely 5-minute walk to the Columbia River Maritime Museum. Here you will meet with our guide for you a personalized tour of the facilities. We will examine the history of crossing the bar, known as one of the toughest and most treacherous routes in maritime history. You will explore actual ships that were destroyed during the river crossing, discover artifacts and learn what makes this specific area so dangerous and feared by even the most experienced sailors.

Fort Clatsop Tour & Astoria Experience

The evening before you tour Astoria, our onboard lecturer, often Todd Weber, will provide an entertaining and historically accurate portrayal of the city and the Lewis and Clark expedition here during the 1800s. At Fort Clatsop, a Park Ranger will meet with our group to explain its significance and begin a personalized tour of the grounds. You will witness live demonstrations, tour the museum and explore the exact replica of the fort where Lewis and Clark wintered in 1806. We will then depart through the city of Astoria on our way to the Astoria Column. This majestic tower perched high on a bluff overlooks the city and river, providing outstanding views of the landscape below and our ship as it rests in port. If you are up to the challenge, you can walk the 164 steps up the tower to the observation deck for a once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity.

Onboard Entertainment - David Duthie

The duo of David Duthie and Bo Ayers will entertain guests with a set of songs from the “Great American Songbook,” a collection of the most important and influential American popular songs of the 20th century. These familiar melodies are principally from Broadway theatre, musical theatre, and Hollywood musical film from the 1920s through the 1950s.

*Entertainment times, days, and performers are subject to change

Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center

In the morning, take a scenic tour through Astoria as we journey to Cape Disappointment State Park. Here a Park Ranger will greet us and serve as our guide through the impressive Lewis and Clark Interpretive exhibit. Situated on the cliffs 200 feet above the Pacific Ocean, the center commemorates the Corps of Discovery’s 1804-1806 expedition. Witness live demonstrations, an interactive film, and a variety of exhibits dedicated to Lewis and Clark. The impressive mural-sized “timeline” panels guide you through the exhibit while featuring many of the actual sketches, paintings, and photographs of the Corps members. This tour blends perfectly complements Todd Weber’s onboard Lewis and Clarks lectures.

Day
3Mount St. Helens, WA

Perhaps the most impactful of all landmarks in the region is Mount St. Helens. From high on an overlook, bear witness to the awesome power of the volcano whose eruption in 1980 scorched 230 square miles of forest land and forever changed the landscape. Expert guides will show you the pumice plain and lava dome as they explain the effect the volcano had on the lives of those in the surrounding towns.

Mount St. Helens Experience - Complimentary Excursion

May 18, 1980 is a day etched into the history of the United States as the powerful eruption of Mount St. Helens drastically changed the landscape of what is now referred to as the National Volcanic Monument. On your scenic journey to the Mount St. Helens Johnston Ridge Observatory, your tour guide will provide engaging commentary regarding the eruption, how it affected the landscape and surrounding communities, and how the environment has responded naturally to the disturbance. The Observatory itself sits on a bluff near the crater, offering spectacular views of the pumice plain and blast site.

Day
4Cruising the Columbia River Gorge / Stevenson, WA

The Columbia River Gorge is a spectacular river canyon cutting the only sea-level route through the Cascade Mountain Range. A popular recreational destination, the gorge holds federally protected status as a National Scenic Area. The cliffs of the gorge look down on quaint riverfront towns and exhilarating waterfalls.

Multnomah Falls - Complimentary Excursion

A highlight of any trip to the Pacific Northwest, Multnomah Falls is sure to leave you in awe. After breakfast, our private guide will meet you at the ship’s dock right in the middle of the Columbia River Gorge, and your journey to the majestic waterfall begins. As you wind through the thick forest you will cross the impressive “Bridge of the Gods,” before finally reaching Multnomah Falls. Upon arrival, you will have time to explore the Falls on your own, and walk the famous Benson Bridge to get the best vantage point for your photo opportunities.

*Fish Hatchery only offered on cruises ending in Portland, OR

Columbia River Gorge Interpretive Center

Enjoy a self-guided tour of the Columbia River Gorge Interpretive Center, which showcases the area's unique history and cultural diversity. From the Native American tribes that inhabited the Gorge, to the expedition of Lewis and Clark and 19th-century loggers, learn of the bountiful life on the Gorge as you explore this amazing museum.

Onboard Entertainment - Kevin Neil

Kevin Neil is a solo guitar player who brings our ship's voyage to life. His "Songs of the Sailor" performance is a collection of maritime songs and sea shanties inspired by sailors of old, while his Cowboy Kevin show features a country-style twang , reminiscent of the heroic cowboys of the Old West.

*Entertainment times, days, and performers are subject to change

Bonneville Dam

Throughout your journey on the Columbia River, you will transit 8 locks, lifting the ship more than 700 feet vertically. Building upon the lectures of our onboard experts throughout the week, this excursion provides guests with an in-depth understanding of and appreciation for the engineering that enables the Dam to generate enough hydroelectric power to provide nearly 500,000 homes with electricity.

Day
5The Dalles, OR

Located in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, between Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams on the south bank, The Dalles is a perfect spot to take photographs. Discover the area where Lewis & Clark camped at Rock Fort Camp on their historic exploration of the Louisiana Purchase territory in 1805-1806.

Columbia Gorge Discovery Center - Complimentary Excursion

As you step off the ship, you will be greeted by members of the local visitor’s center who are dressed in period-specific clothing from the pinnacle days of riverboating. Our guide will meet us at the ship for a short narrated tour of the town before arriving at the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center. Here, explore the various exhibits that highlight the volcanic upheaval and raging floods that helped to create the gorge. The highlight of the center visit includes a unique raptor exhibition where we will watch birds of prey put on an aerobatic display and learn about the protected eagles that call the gorge home.

Cascade Cliffs Winery Tour & Tasting

Experience the breathtaking views of the Columbia Gorge as we tour the vineyard at Cascade Cliffs Winery. Tour the winery accented with rustic décor, walk in the scenic vineyard, and taste a variety of award-winning wines.

Maryhill Museum of Art

Overlooking the gorge sits the Maryhill Museum of Art. Here, Native American artifacts, royal memorabilia from Queen Marie of Romania, outdoor sculptures, and a permanent collection of international chess sets adorn the museum halls. You will not only be treated to one-of-a-kind permanent collection, but also a variety of featured exhibitions.

Day
6Pendleton, OR / Richland, WA

Pendleton is known for its beautiful countryside, indigenous Native American tribes, and the network of underground tunnels created a century ago for illicit activities. The area is also famous for its lucrative wool trade in the 18th and 19th-centuries. Visit the REACH Museum in Richland which illustrates the culture and history of the region through engaging exhibits, artifacts, and tours.

The Pendleton Signature Tour

Enjoy a scenic ride through the countryside and witness the striking contrast in landscape as you make your way to Pendleton for the day’s excursions. Upon arrival, be greeted by our private tour guide who will take you to explore Pendleton’s infamous underground city before a complimentary BBQ lunch at the famous Hamley’s Restaurant. In the afternoon, you will visit the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute, for a look into the storied past of the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla Tribes; also visit the famous Pendleton Woolen Mill where you will have a tour of the mill and the chance to purchase authentic woven goods.

This is a Signature Shore Tour. Please call (800) 460-4518 in advance to reserve this experience.

Day
7Clarkston, WA

The twin cities of Lewiston, ID, and Clarkston, WA, are known as the Northwest’s most inland seaports. Along the Snake River, you will find Hells Canyon, the deepest canyon in North America, known for its pristine scenery and thriving wildlife.

Hells Canyon Jet Boat Signature Tour

We have chartered the Hells Canyon Jet Boat to take you through the deepest canyon in America. After breakfast, the jet boat will meet you at the ship for an afternoon of adventure. Here, you will explore places most boats cannot reach on the river and witness the amazing transformation in geography from high desert to alpine forests. View ancient rock formations and Native pictographs while your local Clarkston guide provides interesting stories about the region’s history and canyon formation. Enjoy a catered luncheon at the exclusive Garden Creek Ranch before heading back to the ship, where we will celebrate your return during our nightly cocktail hour.

This is a Signature Shore Tour. Please call (800) 460-4518 in advance to reserve this experience.

* For cruises departing from Clarkston, the Jet Boat Tour is a pre-cruise excursion. Please call (800) 460-4518 in advance for more information

Nez Perce National Historic Park - Complimentary

Led by an expert guide, take a narrated tour of this historic park. Hear stories of the Nez Perce tribe, best remembered for having saved the Lewis and Clark Expedition team from starvation following their journey through the Bitterroot Mountains. Witness preserved sites, stories, and artifacts associated with the Nez Perce tribe.

*Tour only offered on cruises ending in Clarkston, WA

Day
8Clarkston, WA

After breakfast, explore the scenic city of Clarkston at your leisure. If you need assistance with departure travel arrangements, be sure to ask our onboard hotel manager.

Note: On reverse itineraries, we offer a Pre-Cruise Package which includes a jet boat tour of Hells Canyon. Call a Cruise Specialist to learn more.

Experiences

The Columbia and Snake Rivers cruise is an exploration for the senses. During your voyage, taste the finest cuisine in the region, view the most spectacular scenery, and hear amazing tales about the rich history of this captivating destination.

Our carefully selected naturalists, historians, and musicians bring the unique heritage and culture of the Columbia & Snake River region to life through interactive discussions, concerts and activities.

The Pacific Northwest is known for its fresh seafood and delicious fare. Our team of master chefs takes great pride in offering you a customized menu, featuring the finest locally sourced cuisine in the region.

The Pacific Northwest encompasses diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. Throughout your journey you may see:

Queen of the West

A veteran of the Columbia and Snake Rivers, Queen of the West underwent major renovations with upgrades to passenger staterooms, lounges, galley, and engine room. Meticulous care and attention to detail went into the reconstruction, from the newly designed and custom built furniture to the expanded staterooms and additional private balconies.

Owner's Suite (Private Balcony)

Enjoy the spacious accommodations of our 280 sq. ft. Owner’s Suites that provide the luxury and privacy. Each features a full-size bathroom, a seating area, and desk. Offering the best views of the river directly from your suite and the living space of premium hotel, the expansive Owner’s Suite is the very best way to follow the grand route of Lewis and Clark.

AAC (Private Balcony)

Conveniently located on the second and third decks, these AAC staterooms are equipped with private balconies which provide some spectacular panoramic views of the Columbia and Snake Rivers and the surrounding landscape. At 246 sq. ft., these staterooms also offer a sitting area, desk, and full-size bathroom.

AAL (Private Balcony)

Located on the second and third decks, our AAL staterooms give you plenty of room to relax and unwind during your cruise. Enjoy a luxurious 236 sq. ft. living space that is equipped with plush seating, a full-size bathroom, and a private balcony that offers great views of the surrounding scenery.

AAG

With over 204 sq. ft. of space, these elegant staterooms are spacious and comfortable. Enjoy a full-size bathroom, writing desk, and large picture window that features great views of the Columbia and Snake rivers.

AA

Located on the third deck, these 183 sq. ft. staterooms offer both intimate privacy and expansive views of the passing scenery. Equipped with all of the amenities found in a hotel, these staterooms offer exceptional comfort and are located near the ship’s library.

A

Our Category A, 183 sq. ft. staterooms are ideally located with easy access to the lounge and dining room. Your tastefully decorated room features a comfortable seating area and private bathroom.

Single (Private Balcony)

The intimate atmosphere of our Single staterooms is ideal for the solo traveler. Featuring 181 sq. ft., rooms can be arranged to your liking and offer a spacious bathroom and your very own walk-out private balcony.

Single

Retaining the luxury of a double-occupancy stateroom, our Single staterooms feature 149 sq.ft. of space, open views, and full-size bathrooms.

Queen of the West Deck Plan

American Pride

American Pride offers an unparalleled experience, never before available on the Columbia and Snake Rivers. Aboard American Pride, guests will discover the natural beauty, history, and culture of the Pacific Northwest while enjoying the finest in accommodations and personalized service.

American Pride not only boasts the largest, most well-appointed staterooms but also offers private balconies and unobstructed views. In addition to the amazing scenery, our master chefs have been busy preparing menus that are tailored specifically to the Pacific Northwest region.

Owner's Suite (Private Balcony)

Each Owner’s Suite on the American Pride offers the finest accommodations on the Columbia River with unsurpassed views of the passing scenery. A spectacular up to 445 sq. ft. of space is your private sanctuary to spread out and make yourself at home. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors lead to an expansive private balcony offering private panoramic views throughout the room. Every modern amenity is at your fingertips, along with a spacious seating area and full-size bathroom.

AAC (Private Balcony)

Located on the top deck, these spacious staterooms feature commanding views of the passing Columbia River landscapes. At 304 sq. ft., there is plenty of room to enjoy the tasteful comfort of your surroundings. These staterooms have all the comforts of a fine hotel and feature floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors with a private balcony to offer panoramic views of the Northwest from every angle.

AAL (Private Balcony)

AAL staterooms are conveniently located on the third deck and offer all of the comforts of a fine hotel. Complete with a private balcony and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, these staterooms provide spectacular panoramic views of the Columbia River and the surrounding landscape. At 304 sq. ft., these staterooms also offer a seating area, desk, and full-size bathroom.

AAR (Private Balcony)

AAR staterooms can be found on the second deck of the American Pride. Enjoy a luxurious 304 sq. ft. of living space that is equipped with plush seating, full-size bathrooms, and a private balcony with large opening picture window.

A

These 290 sq. ft. staterooms offer exceptional comfort and a relaxing living area. Featuring a large opening picture window, all are equipped with modern amenities, full-size bathrooms, and closet space.

Single (Private Balcony)

Perfect for the solo traveler, our Single staterooms offer all of the amenities you expect from a fine hotel. At 230 sq. ft., these staterooms have spacious bathrooms and large sliding glass doors that lead to a private balcony.

Single

A comfortable getaway, our Single suites offer individuals a spacious room with convenient amenities. At 203 sq. ft., these staterooms have interior entrances and large opening windows where the sights of the Mississippi can be enjoyed.

American Pride Deck Plan

American Song

The first in a new series of modern riverboats from American Cruise Lines, American Song will elevate the standard for U.S. river cruising. With a capacity of 184 guests, this new ship has all the modern design features that today’s traveler has come to expect, including the contemporary styling, the largest staterooms in the industry with private balconies, and a grand four-story atrium. Experience the Revolution in U.S. River cruising.

Grand Suite (Private Balcony)

American Song features the first ever Grand Suite. This luxurious suite measures over 900 sq. ft. and offers 270◦ of panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Sliding glass doors lead out to a wrap-around balcony complete with a private dining area, the perfect place to enjoy breakfast room service or watch the sun set. Each Grand Suite features a separate bedroom and living area, ideal for gathering with family and friends after an invigorating day of exploration.

Owner's Suite (Private Balcony)

Each Owner’s Suite offers the finest accommodations with unsurpassed views of the passing scenery. A spectacular 445 sq. ft. of space is your private sanctuary to spread out and make yourself at home. This spacious suite features a full-size bathroom, as well as a separate bedroom and living area. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors let light pour in and allow private panoramic views from every vantage point. An expansive private balcony is a perfect place to savor a calm afternoon or to enjoy breakfast as the sun rises over the riverbank.

Veranda Suite (Private Balcony)

With a generous 405 sq. ft. of relaxing space, each Veranda suite includes a private walk-out balcony to enjoy the panoramic views. Considered one of the finest staterooms on any cruise ship, guests will enjoy full-size bathrooms and large living area with sliding glass door.

AAM (Private Balcony)

Located on the top deck, these spacious staterooms feature commanding views of the passing river landscapes. At 328 sq. ft., there is plenty of room to enjoy the tasteful comfort of your surroundings. These staterooms have all the comforts of a fine hotel and feature floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors with a private balcony to offer panoramic views from every angle.

AAC (Private Balcony)

AAC staterooms are conveniently located on the third deck and offer all of the comforts of a fine hotel. Complete with a private balcony and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors, these staterooms provide spectacular views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding landscape. At 316 sq. ft., these staterooms also offer a sitting area, desk and full-size bathrooms.

AAL (Private Balcony)

AAL staterooms can be found on the second deck and offer a luxurious 304 sq. ft. of living space. Each room is equipped with plush seating, full-size bathroom, and a private balcony with large sliding glass doors that offer great views of the Mississippi scenery. These staterooms are the epitome of comfort and relaxation.

AAR (Private Balcony)

AAR staterooms on the 2nd deck offer complete comfort with approximately 300 sq. ft. of living space, full-size bathrooms, and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that lead out to a furnished private balcony. These staterooms also feature a large sitting area, ideal for getting together with friends.

AAG (Private Balcony)

AAG staterooms are conveniently located on the main deck with easy access to the dining room. At a spacious 304 sq. ft. of living space, each room features a full-size bathroom, and a furnished private balcony, offering spectacular views of the passing landscapes. Also included is a writing desk and large sitting area.

Single (Private Balcony)

Perfect for the solo traveler, our Single staterooms offer all of the amenities you expect from a fine hotel. At 250 sq. ft., these staterooms have spacious bathrooms and large sliding glass doors that lead to a private balcony.

American Song Deck Plan

Lewis & Clark Cruise

Two hundred years ago, Lewis and Clark set out on their pioneering journey into the West. Follow their path on an unforgettable Lewis & Clark theme cruise. Stop at Fort Clatsop, walk the grounds where the expeditionary team camped, and view artifacts from the expedition. Onboard, our riverlorian Todd Weber brings this region to life with tales of the patriots, fur traders, Native Americans, and explorers who helped shape the history of our country.

Food & Wine Cruise

The Pacific Northwest is known for its delicious seafood and delectable wines. On this amazing Food & Wine Cruise along the Columbia River, savor exquisite regionally-inspired cuisine and work one-on-one with our onboard expert to find the perfect complementary local wine. Visit amazing natural landmarks to better understand the unique topography of the region and how its diversity contributes to the wine varietals.

Eagle Society Cruise

More than 200 years ago, Lewis and Clark followed the Columbia and Snake Rivers on their pioneering journey into the West. This 8-day cruise retraces the route traveled aboard the paddlewheelersQueen of the West and American Pride, as well as the brand new American Song, the first in our new series of modern riverboats. Eagle Society members will enjoy stops in fascinating locations, including the two-tiered Multnomah Falls, Mount St. Helens, and the Columbia River Gorge.

Deck Plan

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American Cruise Lines - Columbia and Snake River Cruise

Discover the scenic Columbia River as you cruise along the legendary path made famous by Lewis and Clark more than 200 years ago. You'll experience the majestic beauty of Multnomah Falls, the powerful Mount St. Helens and the popular Fort Clatsop in Astoria.

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We provide guests an extraordinary river cruising experience while exploring the historic waterways of the United States. Cruise in comfort aboard our modern fleet of river boats and paddlewheelers. Enjoy luxurious accommodations, exceptional cuisine, and personalized service on every cruise.